2025 Polestar 4 performance, value, and weird design

The fact that a first drive review comes mostly down to a single decision will no doubt leave Polestar execs, designers, engineers, and PR pros somewhat frustrated. Yet I suspect the drive program in Madrid purposefully put us in the 3 second so that we might head home with better recent memories. Similarly to that choice, boldly eschewing a rear window will undoubtedly either turn off potential buyers or turn on those early tech adopters who crave the most radical features in the name of living the avant-garde lifestyle.

In my opinion, the 4 represents the first hiccup from Polestar as a brand since the spinoff from Volvo and production beginning under Geely oversight. Regardless, simultaneously adding two crossovers to the lineup should help to boost the company’s recognition and marketing position. And, hopefully, thereby bolster overall sales, since I still view Polestar as one of my favorite automakers at the current moment, in terms of design, performance, and sustainability efforts alike. 

Given the 4’s obvious shortcomings, though, I suspect the 3–even at a significantly higher price point–will end up making the largest difference, as Polestar continues to expand its footprint here in the United States and abroad.